About Richard D.

I teach guitar from a wide background in many genres. You can expect to learn chord and scale theory, as well as mechanics, tone control, note and key identification, and ear training. We can explore any genre of interest, however my specialties are in blues, rock, classic rock, bluegrass, and country.

About Richard

Music is my life. Since the age of 16, I have studied the guitar extensively. During my high-school years I was involved in band, marching band, choir, and independent music theory. I started my first band when I was 19 in the U.S. Army, and my life has never been the same since. I played music professionally in local bands while attending UMSL and have been teaching guitar and musical performance to many students privately for the last 7 years while developing and exploring my own musical goals. Recently I have written, produced, and performed on 5 original music albums, toured from St Louis to Texas and Colorado, and have learned many things about humanity and our culture's relationship to music. Those who share a passion for music form an extraordinary community. Come take the first step toward your potential...

*** Lesson Detai

ls ***My students can expect professional, expert advise from a working performance artist. One of my main philosophies is a focus on fun. If music is fun, then students will practice more - which leads to accelerating returns. My students can expect lessons tailored to their specific goals. First I will discuss with the student musical influences and genre preferences, then I will assess the student's current abilities and we will begin designing a weekly regimen of practice and study. As a product of the Internet generation, I recommend using all the tools available to my students including the Internet to further their goals. My students will also learn to perform with other musicians, so we will typically have a segment of each lesson dedicated to jam time. Whether my students aspire to be professional performance artists, impress their love interests, or just rock out in their bedrooms, I work with my students so that they can do exactly that.

*** Travel Equipment ***I bring a music stand, an acoustic guitar, my handout literature, and any other equipment (mic, stand, vocal amp, electric guitar, guitar amp) based on what my students want to learn. I expect my students to own whatever instruments they want to learn.

*** Specialties ***I specialize in teaching acoustic and electric guitar and stage performance. I teach using handouts that I customize for students and have lessons made up around different concepts such as - learning to identify what key a song is in - how to use 3 chord combinations - learning scales and when to use them - these type of things. I usually teach based on how I learned, which includes - using the Internet to learn songs - how to figure out how a particular song is played - getting into good practice habits - etc. My genres of specialty are Blues, Rock/Classic Rock/Southern Rock, and Acoustic Singer/Songwriter. What I like to do is ask a student what kind of music or songs they would like to learn, then build them up to the level they need to be to play those songs or that style of interest.

...

Reviews

Bob October 3, 2017·Music Theory·In home

Richie is a thoughtful and flexible instructor

Kit E. October 21, 2016·Guitar·In studio

My first lesson with Richard was great! He explained how to set everything up and a few fundamentals in a way that we were able to get through them fairly quick and we got right to the fun part. I found myself playing a few cords and jamming with Richard halfway through my first 45 minute class. This is exactly why I wanted to have an instructor, so I can reap the benefits almost immediately, which makes me want to come back for more.

Dave W. May 12, 2016·Guitar·In studio

Combined a great balance of practice, instruction, theory, and suggestions for "homework." Didn't feel inadequate, like I did with another instructor from school of rock.

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Richard D.

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Richard D.

Saint Louis, MO 63104

(16)

starting at

$26
/ 30-min

About David M.

About David

Composer and guitarist David began formal music training at the age of 5 on the drums. He taught himself guitar as a teenager and began playing in local rock bands. Initially entering college as a Journalism major, his passion for music led him to Meramec College where he studied Music Theory with Robert C. Howard and classical guitar with Larry Bolles. From 1990 through 1993, he attended Webster University, and became only the second composer in the school's history to receive the BM/MM Scholarship. While at Webster, he studied composition with Dr. Kendall Stallings, Robert Chamberlin, and Kim Portnoy, Jazz History with Paul Demarinis, and 18th Century Counterpoint with Dr. Eloise Jarvis. During his education, he performed with many student ensembles and sat in on master classes by the great sitarist and surbaharist, Imrat Khan and jazz

guitarist Peter Leitch.

In 1993 he started St. Louis SoundWorks with Grammy nominated Adam Long and Mark McClanahan that specialized in mobile recording, and composing music for films and commercials.

As a musician, David has composed over 200 pieces for various instruments and combinations from small chamber ensembles to full orchestra. He was bandleader of two creative ensembles that focused on alternative notation compositions and improvised music, and later co-founded the avant-garde influenced rock band Diverted Course which released two CD's.

As a teacher, David has taught classical guitar and musicianship as an adjunct faculty member at Meramec College and Webster University. He has given seminars on the music of Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Ornette Coleman, and Anthony Braxton. He has been teaching privately for 23 years and many of his students have gone on to successful music careers and performed all over the world.

*** Lesson Details ***I teach students of all ages in a fun and positive manner. I am flexible and will tailor the lessons to satisfy your own individual goals. Whether you are a beginner that wants to gain a foundation in technique, sight reading, and basic theory or an intermediate or more advanced player that wants to increase their knowledge and polish their skills, I will devise a plan to meet your needs. I encourage regular practice and like my students to keep a journal to monitor their progress.

I teach a variety of styles including classical guitar, blues, rock, jazz, and avant-garde.

Ultimately, I believe everyone needs a creative outlet, a way to express themselves, and has something unique to say, and I aim to help those students find their own voice.

*** Studio Equipment ***Extra guitars and amps at both places. Mixing board at the studio. Only has a upright piano at his home address but has a keyboard at studio

*** Travel Equipment ***Expect my students to provide the guitar. Amplification is optional.

*** Specialties ***Classical, jazz, rock, blues, and avant-garde.

...

Reviews

Daniel M. April 28, 2017·Guitar·In studio

My son is excited to be learning!

Joe February 13, 2017·Guitar·In studio

Dave has been able to take me on a great journey! We have covered many kinds of music, and I'm greatly appreciative of his patience and encouragement. He was able to tell after just a couple of lessons that my original plans for getting lessons was never going to be enough. He introduced several topics, and whetted my appetite for more! If only all teachers could open doors this way!!!

Sam N. October 16, 2016·Guitar·In home

We are extremely happy with our decision to go with David. He is extremely encouraging and positive during his lessons and his teaching skills are top notch!!!

Mel P.

Mel P.

About JD H.

You will get a awesome overview of blues, country, flamenco, rock, latin,

and learn how to be more proficient in each area.

About JD

Hi, My name is JD and I am a professional guitarist and instructor in St. Louis, MO. Since 1997, at the age of 13, I have been playing electric and acoustic guitar. It wasn't until 2010 that I decided to make performing music my profession. In the fall of 2011 I then decided to start teaching students to round out my profession.

I teach a broad variety of musical genres and can range from the beginner to the advanced player in skill level. There is always some thing to be learned at every stage.

I would love to hear from you soon!

...

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JD H.

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JD H.

Saint Louis, MO 63116

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About Travis L.

I am eager students of all experience levels and ages! I structure my lessons so students learn what they want to learn, while also building a strong foundation. I specialize in rock, pop, fusion, and progressive metal. I have several years of experience performing in various Christian worship bands and a bluegrass/folk duo.

About Travis

Hey there! My name is Travis and I can't wait to meet you! I have been playing guitar for over ten years. I look forward to helping you reach your goals!

...

Reviews

Ivan February 15, 2017·Guitar·In home

Very personable and related well to my son. Helped him learn a high interest song and made the lesson memorable.

Harry September 20, 2016·Guitar·In home

Seems like all will go well!

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Travis L.

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Travis L.

Saint Louis, MO 63104

(2)

starting at

$20
/ 30-min

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About Todd A.

Sight reading, finger exercises, scales, theory (varies on level of student), a song/excerpt that will match the students level, as well as allowing them to choose something to work on for future learning.

About Todd

Hello. My name is Todd A. I've been playing music for most of my life. I recently graduated from Webster University with a BA in music after receiving an AA in guitar performance at SWIC. I play in several bands in the St. Louis music scene and try to play music as often as possible. I look forward to hearing from you.

...

Reviews

Anthony December 1, 2017·Guitar·In home

My son has really enjoyed his lessons and even practices without my nagging!

Chris March 9, 2017·Acoustic Guitar·In studio

Todd is a fantastic guy! He's patient, informative, and genuinely educates you, even at the most basic level.

Highly recommended!

T.C. March 3, 2017·Guitar·In studio

Great teacher, Nice and very informative!

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Todd A.

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Todd A.

Saint Louis, MO 63118

(3)

starting at

$15
/ 30-min

About Cole M.

That bone crushing riff, the iconic solo, an instantly recognizable reverb-laden intro: everyone has guitar hero fantasies, and it's my goal to bring students from 'if only I could play that' to actually playing. But I go further than just teaching riffs and solos: I focus on learning songs and teaching basic chord and scale theory to develop technical ability and improvisational technique. I also believe learning is exponentially easier when students enjoy the songs they play, so ideally all learning material is based off of the student's individual music library. I aim to help you get that song out of your head and into your hands.

About Cole

I'm a student at Washington University by way of Chicago. I currently play bass in a jazz combo on campus, and also trade off roles as guitarist and bassist for a house band for a sketch comedy show. I've been playing for over seven years, and have been teaching lessons back home for the last three.

I spent the last four years working for Reverb.com, the worlds largest online musical instrument marketplace, where I contributed guitar-related web content and served as an authority on vintage guitar knowledge.

Cole M.

Cole M.

About Tyler S.

Easy going, talented, performer and instructor of guitar and bass is accepting new students of ALL ages and abilities. Able to take on beginner students all the way through professional musicians.

Tyler Stokes is a guitarist, singer, and songwriter born and raised in St. Louis. Since playing his first professional gig when he was 14, he has played all over the world, including the US, UK, Europe, Australia, and Mexico. He currently is the guitarist for The Devon Allman Band and leads his own bands Jackson Stokes and Delta Sol Revival. Besides playing, he has co-writes with many artists, his latest co-write, on Devon Allman’s Ride or Die, debuted at Number #1 on the Billboard Blues Charts. Tyler has shared stages with legendary acts such as Gary Clark Jr., Buddy Guy, Robert Cray, The Wailers, and many others. Besides writing pop music, Tyler has written soundtracks for commercials, short films, and theatrical productions.

Before his full time professional music career, Tyler ...

About Tyler

Tyler Stokes is a guitarist, singer, and songwriter born and raised in St. Louis. Since playing his first professional gig when he was 14, he has played all over the world, including the US, UK, Europe, Australia, and Mexico. He currently is the guitarist for The Devon Allman Band and leads his own bands Jackson Stokes and Delta Sol Revival. Besides playing, he has co-writes with many artists, his latest co-write, on Devon Allman’s Ride or Die, debuted at Number #1 on the Billboard Blues Charts. Tyler has shared stages with legendary acts such as Gary Clark Jr., Buddy Guy, Robert Cray, The Wailers, and many others. Besides writing pop music, Tyler has written soundtracks for commercials, short films, and theatrical productions.

Before his full time professional music career, Tyler attended Chaminade College Preparatory participating in t

he District and All-State Jazz Bands as well as playing in clubs around the area. For college, he attended Drury University and obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Therapy. Tyler is a Certified Music Therapist whose focus is in Hospice and Palliative Care. He has also taught private lessons in guitar, bass, and beginner piano throughout the state of Missouri.

Tyler has taught with Shock City School of Music since 2017. He is able to teach all ages an abilities ranging from beginner, intermediate, advanced, and professional.

...

Reviews

Chris January 30, 2018·Acoustic Guitar·In studio

What a great teacher! Tyler is fun and easy going yet very knowledgeable about music. When you get lessons from him you are learning from a great player and a pro musician. It doesn't get much better than that!

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Tyler S.

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Tyler S.

Saint Louis, MO 63104

(1)

starting at

$42
/ 30-min

About Caleb W.

My lessons are fun and enjoyable. Learning the guitar at your pace in a comfortable, friendly environment. I want to teach you what I know and enjoy so you can learn to enjoy playing as well. Classically trained is not me. I like the old time Americana folk roots of guitar and I like to share my knowledge.

About Caleb

HelloI am a well rounded multi instrumental musician of 20 years. I have experience with all different aspects of music and production. My main passion musically is writing song, playing guitar and singing. I have been in several working bands. I work well with others and feel I have what it takes to help others learn. Everyone learns in a unique style and understanding this helps me share my knowledge successfully.

...

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Caleb W.

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Caleb W.

Saint Louis, MO 63119

starting at

$43
/ 30-min

About Kaitlin E.

Guitar is my main instrument as a music major in college. I want students to learn at their on pace while motivating them to progress with each lesson. Students should be able to request certain genres and songs to learn. I am open to teaching any genre as well as the theory aspect necessary to truly understand the guitar.

About Kaitlin

I have been playing guitar for almost ten years, piano for three years, and singing for most of my life (with vocal training for six years). I want students to learn at their own pace while motivating them to progress with each lesson. Students are welcome to request certain genres and songs to learn. I am open to teaching any genre as well as the theory aspect necessary to truly understand the instruments. The ultimate goal is to provide students with the musical knowledge I have been educated on, while having fun!

Affordable

Effective

Guitar Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Guitar instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Karl

"Dave M. proves you can teach an old dog new tricks

I am a 66 year old retired IT professional that has a passion for guitar playing. During my working ye

ars I did not have the time to indulge my desire to learn how to play. After dabbling with self instruction and a few music store instructors these past few years of retirement I finally found a teacher truly committed to his students. I feel like for the first time I am making progress and learning how to play guitar. Dave is enthusiastic and thorough with his lessons and a true professional in his craft. He has instilled me with an infectious desire to move forward and I can't wait for the next lesson to come around. I highly recommend him and his approach to other potential students young or old."

...

Saint Louis, MO teacher:
David M.

Review by Don

"Surreal! A gift for life! Thanks Dave

I am 56 years of age and have always loved music. As a freshman in college in 1974, I enrolled in some music theory

classes and began playing guitar. Not one to discipline myself, I learned only some basic chords and a few little things throughout the years. One day I finally said to myself that it was time to "finally learn how to play the guitar." The good thing with respect to my disposition was that not once did I ever think I was too old to learn. It was a year ago on Christmas morning when my wife presented me with a card containing a number of lessons with Take Lessons. I was elated, anxious and excited to begin to learn what I had put off for half of my life. When I first called my instructor, Dave Murray, I knew this was going to be very edifying and very special for me. As a fellow instructor, I've come to realize that it takes a special person to really understand the needs of students and to appropriate a lesson plan that meets both the individual's elementary and progressive needs. Dave has done this marvelously. I can't measure the joy of success I've experienced learning to play with Dave, whom I'm here to tell you, is a tremendous asset to your organization. I was embarrassed somewhat when we began my lessons as I was all thumbs and very clumsy. Dave was incredible as he always applied the correct method that not only instilled my confidence, but allowed me to make sounds I never thought possible. I'm playing things on the guitar today that again, I never, ever thought were possible. Dave has a meticulous method to his instruction where he introduces things, simple or complex, during the tenure of lessons that are a future puzzle piece that logically fits somewhere down the road. I find his method of instruction intriguing and challenging. Again, at 56 years of age, I can honestly say, this is the greatest gift I could ever have bestowed upon myself. I'm never going to be on the cover of Guitar Player Magazine, but thanks to Dave, I'll always have one of the greatest gifts anyone can give themselves - the gift of playing music."

...

Saint Louis, MO teacher:
David M.

Review by Tim

"Super Dave

Dave instructs my daughter and son in guitar. They're both convinced they are Dave's favorite student. I believe that in itself explains why h

e is incredibly effective with children. He has them feeling great about music and their progress. Certainly he is an excellent technical instructor. Yes he teaches proper hand position, good tone and so on and so forth. But his ability to connect with children makes him a one of a kind instructor."

...

Saint Louis, MO teacher:
David M.

Review by Kelsey

"Fantastic teacher

I'm a 25 year old teacher and decided I wanted to start taking guitar lessons during my first summer off. I looked online and found Dav

id through Take Lessons reviews and am SO glad I did. He is such a fantastic teacher, making lessons fun and relaxing after a long day. After just a little over a year, I have learned such a wide range of skills thanks to David's willingness to develop a program filled with variety. I highly recommend David to anyone who is eager to learn!"

...

Saint Louis, MO teacher:
David M.

Review by Anthony

"My son has really enjoyed his lessons and even practices without my nagging!"

Saint Louis, MO teacher:
Todd A.

Review by Karl

"Hands down the best guitar instructor in St Louis.

Since retiring in 2006 I tried a few others but David brings expertise in not only guitar mechanics

and virtuosity but an understanding of deeper musical principles and its application to the guitar student.

Dave is a true genius in the art of Guitar, no matter the musical genre - or -whether its Led Zepplin or Brouwer classical guitar method.he can't be beat.

KM"

...

Saint Louis, MO teacher:
David M.

Review by Susan

"This was my first lesson ever! Richard was very professional, knowledgeable yet patient and kind!! He made this a great experience for me. I felt as i

f I were part of something...not just a first time student. Can't wait til the next lesson!"

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I have been teaching guitar for several years now. Every now and then I evaluate the effectiveness of my teaching methods. What I've discovered is that there are many bad ways to go about teaching and learning guitar chords. Based off my experience, here are some ineffective ways people try to learn chords:
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